Prevention of Coccidiosis in the Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar) by Medication with Sulfadimethoxine and Ormetoprim (Rofenaid®)

Abstract

Rofenaid® (a 5:3 mixture of sulfadimethoxine and ormetoprim) was effective in preventing coccidiosis of chukar partridges. Levels of .0100 or .0125% sulfadimethoxine, with the corresponding level of ormetoprim in the ration, gave the best results. These levels markedly reduced mortality in severe infections (over 75% mortality in unmedicated chukars) and eliminated mortality in medicated groups when infections produced 52% mortality or less in unmedicated controls. In the latter infections, Rofenaid also protected against the depression in weight gain seen 6 days postinoculation in unmedicated chukars. Studies in uninoculated chukars showed that Rofenaid has a wide safety margin and did not produce adverse effects even at levels of .0300% sulfadimethoxine. Rofenaid should, therefore, be an effective medication for the prevention of coccidiosis in chukars in the field. Data from the present studies are being submitted to the IR-4 Program of the Food and Drug Administration for consideration of approval for the use of Rofenaid in chukar partridges.